Renowned Ghanaian-British architect Sir David Adjaye has revealed that Ghana’s proposed National Cathedral was designed to become the tallest building in Accra and one of the most distinctive landmarks on the city’s skyline.
Speaking at a public lecture at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Sir David offered fresh insights into the vision behind the controversial project, describing it as a national landmark intended to serve religious, cultural, and civic purposes.
According to him, many people mistakenly viewed the National Cathedral as a relatively modest structure, when in reality it was designed to be one of the most prominent buildings in the country.
“The funny thing about the building is that we think it is a small building. It actually would be the tallest building in Accra,” he said.
Sir David explained that the cathedral was conceived as more than a place of worship. He said the project was intended to become a major destination capable of attracting visitors from around the world while contributing to Ghana’s tourism and economic development.
“There is nothing like it. It would make a unique destination in Ghana, in Accra,” he stated.
The architect disclosed that the complex was designed to accommodate up to 25,000 people during major religious events, national ceremonies, and international gatherings.
Beyond the main worship space, the project was planned to include a range of facilities such as a music school, conference and convention facilities, wedding chapels, a Bible museum, educational centres, and social support facilities.
Sir David noted that the development was also intended to serve the wider Accra community rather than only the Christian population.
“It can’t just be for the religious community. It has to be for the communities in Accra to want to use it,” he said.
He further revealed that the project featured plans for extensive green spaces, including a large biophilic park and gardens aimed at providing a natural public environment within the rapidly urbanising capital.
The design also incorporated a crypt dedicated to national heroes and drew inspiration from traditional Akan symbolism and African architectural concepts.
According to Sir David, the National Cathedral was envisioned as a symbol of Ghana’s identity, faith, and aspirations, while positioning Accra among cities known for iconic architectural landmarks.
His remarks provide one of the clearest explanations yet of the scale and ambition behind the National Cathedral project, which remains one of Ghana’s most debated public infrastructure initiatives.
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